Discovering Emotion Through Abstract Art
- Simon Burdge
- Jun 24
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 20

The Spark of Inspiration
This abstract piece began as a spontaneous sketch during a visit to the Tate. The Tate is a renowned institution celebrated for its vast collection of modern and contemporary art. It is a playground for anyone who believes splatters of paint can be good for the soul.
As I wandered through the galleries, I was surrounded by various artists' vibrant colors and dynamic forms. One particular artwork sparked my imagination. However, I can’t recall the original piece it referenced. Frankly, my version no longer resembles it. This artistic freedom allowed my creative instincts to take over like an enthusiastic dog chasing a squirrel.
The Beauty of Letting Go
That’s part of the beauty of working from memory and feeling. I let the sketch evolve freely when I returned to the studio, away from the constraints of the original piece. What began as a quick observational note—hastily captured with a few strokes of my pencil—metamorphosed into something uniquely its own. This transformation was shaped more by intuition than fidelity to the initial inspiration.
In this process, I allowed my emotions and thoughts to guide the creation. I did not adhere strictly to the visual cues that once caught my eye. The freedom of expression is liberating. It enables me to explore the depths of my creativity without the weight of expectation or the need for precision.
After all, nobody really expects their abstract art to make sense, do they? Sometimes, what resonates with you isn’t just the image, but the impression it leaves behind. This impression often consists of an echo of feelings, colors, and shapes that linger long after the visual reference has faded.
Capturing the Essence of Emotion
It is this impression that I sought to capture in my abstract piece. I aimed to translate the essence of that moment into a new form. The colors began to blend in unexpected ways. The lines took on a life of their own, dancing across the page in a rhythm that felt both chaotic and harmonious, much like a toddler at a birthday party.
Each brushstroke became a reflection of my inner state. It was a dialogue between the past and the present, the seen and the imagined. Ultimately, this artwork became a testament to the transformative power of memory and emotion in the creative process.
Art as Interpretation
My art serves as a reminder that creation is not merely a replication of reality. It's an interpretation—an exploration of what it means to experience and express the world around us. Using colors that can only be described as ‘oops’ and ‘why not?’ allowed me to embrace imperfections.
The journey from that initial sketch to the final piece was not just about producing an image. It was about discovering new pathways of thought and feeling. This exploration ultimately led to a deeper understanding of my artistic voice. Truthfully, it often sounds a lot like a confused cat trying to sing.
The Impact of Abstract Art
Art holds the power to evoke emotions, provoke thoughts, and inspire change. In the world of abstract art, this is expressed through color, form, and texture. Many artists, like myself, convey experiences through abstract representations.
Creating art this way can be a very personal journey. As an artist, I connect with my audience through emotion, even if the forms are abstract. This connection creates a unique relationship between the artist and the viewer.
Each piece of abstract art encourages viewers to look deeper—to interact with emotions and impressions. My work invites you to experience the unexpected, to explore your interpretation, and to embrace the chaos of creativity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, creating abstract art is a deeply personal experience. It challenges me to connect with my emotions and memories. The process of letting go of expectations allows my creativity to thrive in ways I had never considered.
I believe that this art form speaks for those moments when words are not enough. It showcases the beauty found in chaos and the power of personal interpretation. Art is about experience—and each piece offers a unique glimpse into the artist's world.
The beauty of this journey lies in its unpredictability, encouraging others to explore their creativity in similar ways. Whether through painting, drawing, or other mediums, there is a rich world of expression waiting to be discovered.




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